Explore insights from Brian Winters, CTO of ECI Software Solutions, on AI trends, cloud-based SaaS solutions, and cybersecurity strategies shaping the future of small and midsize businesses.
Hello Brian. It’s a pleasure for AI Tech Cube to have you onboard to get some insights on current AI trends. Could you please tell us about your journey towards becoming CTO of ECI Software Solutions?
Thanks for the opportunity. Since I joined ECI in 2019, my focus has been on delivering cloud-based SaaS solutions that really prioritize customer success while keeping cybersecurity front and center. I’ve had the opportunity to lead some major technology turnarounds and oversee the integration of many acquisitions in my career which fits nicely with the work we are trying to do at ECI. What I love most about my role at ECI is that we are passionately focused on helping our customers win in their markets. To do that, we have to ensure we not only meet our commitments but also stay agile and ready to adapt to the ever-changing tech landscape.
You have 15 years of leadership experience in building and managing software, infrastructure, and operations that are necessary to deliver business-critical services securely via the cloud. Please tell us how your leadership journey has evolved in regard to cloud-based solutions.
My leadership journey has always been about delivering modern tech solutions that really empower our customers in their specific industries. Early in my career, I was focused on building solid infrastructure and operations capabilities but over time, my role has expanded to include strengthening cybersecurity and developing end-to-end customer-centric SaaS solutions. I like to focus on the unique needs of each industry we serve while keeping a close eye on overall technology trends like AI, business transformation, and cybersecurity. By applying this insight to our tools, we not only boost operational efficiency but also bring even more value to our key verticals, including manufacturing, building construction, office technology and distribution. As CTO, I’m always applying this experience to drive strategic initiatives, making sure we go above and beyond for our customers and help pave the way for them to be successful.
In your tenure at ECI, you have successfully completed the integration of 20 acquisitions. Could you elaborate on the strategies that you have found smooth for these transitions?
Our approach is all about focusing on key vertically specific industries, so we can deliver software ecosystems that are highly customizable and meet the unique needs of our SMB customers. It all starts with a strong ERP which we are then able to boost customer value and make operations smoother through our integrated suite of business applications, like CRM and ecommerce. This mix of specialized expertise and broad support has really helped drive profitable growth across our acquisitions but more importantly, gives our customers the tools they need to compete against much larger competitors.
How do you think AI is shaping the landscape for small businesses in terms of efficiency and innovation?
AI is really changing the game for SMBs, driving both efficiency and innovation. At ECI, we see AI as a key part of digital transformation, especially as more businesses move to cloud-based solutions. It helps automate important processes—like document capture and workflow management—cutting down on manual work and reducing costly errors. Plus, it gives businesses the power to use data for smarter decisions, keeping them competitive in a fast-moving market. While some businesses are still a bit hesitant about adopting AI, once they do, it can be as valuable as having an extra employee. We’re constantly exploring and developing AI tools within our cloud-native products to help our customers streamline their operations, stay ahead of the curve, and stay competitive.
What kind of trends do you see on the rise when it comes to cloud-based SaaS solutions for small and midsize businesses? Where do you see ECI positioning itself to lead the space?
Cloud-based SaaS solutions for SMBs are all about making digital transformation easier, streamlining operations, and improving customer experiences with automation and AI. What really sets us apart from other software providers is our focus on meeting the specific needs of the industries we serve and integrating our solutions into the software they’re already using and comfortable with. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach—we’re bringing in AI-driven tools to automate workflows and improve decision-making in a more targeted way. Our goal is to provide intuitive solutions that cut down on complexity, so businesses can embrace advanced technology without feeling overwhelmed.
With the increase in the ratio of risk with cybersecurity, how do you work on the strategy to protect client data and infrastructure?
With cybersecurity risks continuously evolving and growing, ECI takes a very proactive approach to protecting our customers’ data and infrastructure. We have a dedicated,full-time team of security experts operating a robust security programthat includes regular employee training, strong endpoint protection, and strict password policies to guard against threats like phishing and malware. We also make sure to keep systems up to date, secure payment processes, and back up data in the cloud to ensure resilience. On top of that, our advanced security measures—like multifactor authentication (MFA), disaster recovery planning, and continuous monitoring—help safeguard sensitive information and keep our customers’ business operations secure.
How do AI applications such as chatbots and business intelligence tools improve operational efficiency? Also, tell us how can small-medium scale businesses leverage these tools to enhance automation and support decision-making.
AI tools like chatbots and business intelligence are game-changers for boosting efficiency. They automate routine tasks, cut down on errors, and provide quicker responses. At ECI, we use AI to speed up processes like customer support, data analysis, and workflow automation, which has helped us make better decisions and gain deeper insights. We are now starting to apply what we have tested and learned externally so our customers can start automating tasks like invoice processing and customer interactions. It will also give them valuable data-driven insights to support their strategy—keeping them competitive and agile in their industries.
What challenges do thriving businesses face in adopting AI trends and cloud solutions? How does ECI foresee itself in adopting and overcoming these challenges?
Growing businesses often run into challenges when adopting AI and cloud solutions, like dealing with legacy systems, overcoming resistance to change, and making sure their data stays secure. At ECI, we understand these hurdles, especially for SMBs just starting their digital transformation journey. That’s why we focus on simplifying industry-specific workflows, modernizing cloud infrastructures, and looking to AI designed specifically for our customers’ needs. We help them adopt new technology without feeling overwhelmed. By continuously investing in innovation, we ensure our solutions are not only forward-thinking but also practical, so our customers can stay competitive while smoothly transitioning to modern systems.
What vision do you have for ECI in the coming 5 years regarding AI technology adoption and innovation?
In the next five years, we see AI becoming even more essential at ECI, both in how we run things internally and in the value we provide to our customers. We’re already using AI tools like chatbots and AI-driven data analysis to get insights on things like win/loss and churn, which help streamline our processes and improve decision-making.
Our strategy is pretty simple: we’re using AI to tackle tasks and challenges that are specific to the industries we serve. Basically, we’re creating AI tools that are purpose-built and seamlessly integrated into the overall ERP experience for our customers.
As we come to the end, what advice would you give to aspiring technology leaders looking to make an impact on the software industry?
Aspiring tech leaders really need to embrace the fast evolution of AI and its game-changing potential in the software industry. I see AI as a powerful tool that helps level the playing field, allowing small businesses to compete with larger enterprises by automating processes and improving efficiency. Leaders should focus on figuring out how AI can enhance decision-making, streamline operations, and spark innovation. By staying adaptable and committed to continuous learning, they can tap into emerging technologies to make a real difference and guide their organizations toward sustainable growth.
Brian Winters
CTO, ECI Software Solutions
Business driven IT executive with proven success directing IT transformations and managing large, complex technology projects. Known for building consensus within the organization and fostering a solutions focused, business-first information technology environment that is focused on leveraging technology to create business opportunity and market differentiation
